Chon Buri Cannabis Shop Raid Reveals Illicit Drug Sales and E-Cigarettes

In a significant crackdown in Chon Buri, authorities raided a cannabis shop, uncovering a stash of illegal drugs and items. The operation, which took place on September 3, led to the seizure of 20 kilograms of dried cannabis flowers, illegal Tramadol, and various illicit cigarettes and e-cigarettes. This raid was initiated in response to multiple complaints from local residents who reported suspicious activities at the shop

The raid was conducted under the direction of Pacharapach Sritanyanon, the Bang Lamung district chief, with the assistance of public health officials Nattawat Sophonsawetasilp and Kittiboonratnanet. The targeted establishment, Suan Nai Mos, is situated on Chaiyapruek 2 Road in the Huai Yai area of Bang Lamung district. During the operation, police seized 52 bottles of cough syrup, allergy medicine, 18 strips of Tramadol, 105 packs of untaxed cigarettes, and 32 fruit-flavoured e-cigarettes, all found alongside the cannabis flowers

The operation was set in motion following reports to the Bang Lamung District Dhamrongtham Centre, which highlighted illegal sales of cough syrup for kratom tea, allergy medicine, and Tramadol without proper authorization. An undercover operation revealed these items were openly displayed at the back of the shop. Several vehicles, including sedans, pickup trucks, and motorcycles, were parked outside, hinting at the shop's popularity and possibly extensive customer base

During the raid, a group of young people was found consuming cannabis, seemingly oblivious to the police presence. They were instructed to desist while officers continued their search. Although no additional illegal items were discovered, a 29-year-old man, referred to as Ek, was arrested and is now facing legal proceedings. This establishment, previously known as Four for a Hundred, was known for selling kratom tea and had been raided on multiple occasions, yet continued to expand its illegal offerings

This incident underscores ongoing challenges in regulating cannabis and other substances in Thailand, particularly as the country navigates the complexities of legalizing cannabis. Despite previous raids, the persistence of illegal activities at this shop suggests a need for more stringent enforcement and monitoring to prevent similar occurrences in the future. The case is currently being handled by the Huai Yai Police Station, which is expected to take further legal action against those involved